Saturday, February 13, 2010

Rediscovering the Joys of Simplicity

Many years ago now, I gave up my well paid job as a secondary school teacher so that I could focus on the ministry I believed God was calling me into. I've had to trust in God to provide for all my needs, financial and otherwise, which has been a challenging but life-changing journey. Like the Celtic Christians, I've learned to appreciate the simple things: the beauty of a sunrise, the gift of light, water, heat and health. And I've repeatedly seen God's love and care in the small - the detail of life.

In our consumerist world, I was encouraged to read an amazing article about a millionaire, Karl Rebedeer, who has given away his whole fortune to charity, because it was making him miserable. He has sold his luxury houses, gliders etc and is moving into a small wooden hut in the mountains and says he feels "free, the opposite of heavy." I've printed the link below. It makes interesting reading. To quote him:

"My idea is to have nothing left. Absolutely nothing. Money is counterproductive - it prevents happiness to come." "More and more I heard the words: 'Stop what you are doing now - all this luxury and consumerism - and start living your real life. I had the feeling I was working as a slave for things that I did not wish for or need.'"I was just listening to the voice of my heart and soul.The entire proceeds are going to charities he set up in Central and Latin America."I increasingly got the sensation that there is a connection between our wealth and their poverty." (The Daily Telegraph) Millionaire gives away fortune which made him miserable